Sibenik: Full-Day Kornati National Park Boat Tour

Key Points

• Full-day adventure exploring the Kornati archipelago by speedboat from Šibenik
• Includes entrance ticket to Kornati National Park and drinks on board
• Stops for swimming, snorkeling, and cliff diving at secluded bays and stunning cliffs
• Visits iconic landmarks like St Nicholas’ fortress and Hitler’s Eyes sea tunnel
• Limited group size of no more than 11 guests ensures an intimate experience
• Flexible schedule with optional stops at cafes and the Prvic Luka village

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Discover the Kornati Archipelago in Šibenik

The full-day Kornati National Park boat tour in Šibenik offers an unforgettable way to experience Croatia’s famous island chain. For $153 per person, the tour delivers a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural highlights, making it ideal for travelers eager to explore the natural beauty of Dalmatia by sea. The tour departs from the D-Resort hotel pier in Šibenik, with a maximum of 11 guests onboard, ensuring personalized attention from the skipper.

This adventure lasts a full day and provides ample time for multiple stops at some of the most scenic spots in Kornati. The tour includes an entrance ticket to the national park and drinks such as water, beer, and juice. While lunch is not included, the schedule allows for a refreshing break at a tavern on the island of Smokvica, adding a taste of local cuisine to the experience.

Speedboat Departure from Šibenik to Kornati

The journey begins at the pier in front of the D-Resort hotel in Mandalina. From here, the speedboat cruise heads through the Šibenik channel, passing notable landmarks like military bunkers, St Nicholas’ fortress, and the Hitler’s Eyes sea tunnel. The boat’s small size makes navigation through narrow channels and close-up views of the coastline particularly enjoyable.

Travelers get a chance to see Bavljenac island, known for its distinctive stone walls that look like a giant fingerprint from above. This initial stretch offers spectacular views of the Dalmatian coast and sets the tone for the day ahead, combining natural scenery with historical sights.

Exploring the Outer Kornati Islands and Cliffs

After about an hour of cruising, the boat reaches the outer parts of Kornati National Park, famous for steep rock faces and dramatic cliffs rising from the sea. The first stop allows for swimming, snorkeling, and cliff diving, with clear waters and secluded bays offering perfect conditions for water activities. The scenery here is rugged and untouched, providing excellent photo opportunities.

This stop is designed for active enjoyment and relaxation alike. Whether you prefer to float in the calm waters, explore underwater life while snorkeling, or take a daring jump from the cliffs, this part of the tour highlights the dramatic beauty of Kornati’s cliffs and coves.

Lunch Break at Smokvica Island Tavern

Midday, the tour makes a stop at a tavern on Smokvica Island for a lunch break. This allows travelers to taste local Dalmatian cuisine while enjoying views of the surrounding islands. The tavern experience offers a chance to relax, chat, and soak in the peaceful island atmosphere before continuing the tour.

This scheduled break also provides some time for light walks or simply relaxing in the island’s scenic setting. The local tavern’s setting amidst the Kornati islands adds a rustic charm to the day, complementing the overall outdoor adventure.

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Inner Kornati Archipelago and the Tarac Fortress

On the return journey, the boat explores the inner parts of the Kornati archipelago, passing famous landmarks such as the Tarac fortress. This part of the tour offers a different perspective from the outer cliffs, with calmer waters and lush island scenery.

The exploration of inner Kornati includes viewing cliffs and islands that are less exposed but equally breathtaking. The guide provides explanations about the landmarks, enhancing understanding of the area’s history and geography. This segment is suitable for those interested in both natural beauty and cultural history.

Final Stop at Prvic Luka

The last stop is at Prvic Luka, a charming village where visitors can sip coffee, eat ice cream, or simply walk around the waterfront. The village provides a relaxed ending to the day’s activities and a chance to soak in local Dalmatian village life. From here, the boat heads back to the initial meeting point in Šibenik.

This peaceful village visit allows for a slow unwind before returning to the bustling town, rounding out the day with a taste of local Dalmatian life and scenery.

Practical Information and Tips

The tour includes drinks on board and an entrance ticket to the National Park. Travelers should bring sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, towels, and a windbreaker for comfort. Large luggage or bags are not allowed onboard, so packing light is recommended.

The activity is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the boat’s design and activity nature. The itinerary may change based on weather conditions, but the small group size ensures flexibility and safety. Booking is flexible, with full refunds available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

The Guide and Onboard Experience

The skipper leads the tour with care, providing explanations about landmarks like Hitler’s Eyes and St Nicholas’ fortress. The reviews praise the expertise and friendliness of guides like Lucas and Borna, who ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Their humor and attentiveness make the experience more engaging, especially during water stops and sightseeing.

Passengers appreciate the personalized nature of this small-group tour, which contrasts with larger, more impersonal trips. The unlimited cold drinks and relaxed pace contribute to a comfortable, fun atmosphere throughout the day.

Comparing with Other Tours in Šibenik

This Kornati boat tour stands out for its full-day duration, small group size, and variety of activities. While optional restaurants are not included, the scheduled stops at bays, villages, and landmarks provide a well-rounded experience. Similar tours might visit different islands or focus on specific activities like snorkeling or fortress visits, but this tour combines all these elements seamlessly.

The tour offers great value for money considering the entrance fee to Kornati National Park and included drinks. It is ideal for those who want an active, scenic, and informative day out on the water, with plenty of opportunity for swimming and photo-taking.

Why This Tour Is a Good Choice for Visitors

The combination of spectacular scenery, historical landmarks, and water-based fun makes this tour appealing. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the expert guides help enrich the experience with stories and explanations. The flexible itinerary means you can enjoy the best spots without feeling rushed.

Travelers who appreciate nature, adventure, and local culture tend to find this trip particularly rewarding. Its moderate price point and full-day schedule make it a solid choice for anyone looking to see the best of Kornati from Šibenik without fuss.

Final Thoughts on the Kornati National Park Boat Tour

This full-day cruise from Šibenik to Kornati National Park offers a balanced mix of outdoor activities and sightseeing, perfect for those who enjoy water sports and natural beauty. The intimate group size and friendly guides contribute to a relaxed and engaging atmosphere. Plus, the spectacular cliffs and secluded bays guarantee memorable photos and experiences.

While lunch is not included, the scheduled stops and drinks on board compensate for this, providing flexibility for personal preferences. The tour’s flexibility and small-group approach make it suitable for travelers seeking a personalized adventure in Dalmatia.

This tour delivers a high-quality, scenic experience that highlights Croatia’s stunning coastline and islands. It stands out as an excellent way to spend a day exploring Kornati’s natural wonders, historical landmarks, and vibrant seabed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $153 per person.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day cruise lasts approximately a full day, with various stops for activities and sightseeing.

Where does the tour depart from?
The tour departs from the pier in front of the D-Resort hotel in Mandalina, Šibenik.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a boat trip, a skipper, drinks onboard (water, beer, juice), and the entrance ticket to Kornati National Park.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch at the local tavern on Smokvica Island is not included.

How many people are on the boat?
The boat has a maximum of 11 guests, ensuring an intimate experience.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and a windbreaker.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments and large luggage is not allowed onboard.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its small group size, diverse activities, and expert guides make this trip a favorite for travelers eager to explore Kornati in comfort and style.

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